Palu 'has X-factor'

Wycliff Palu: Has the X-factor, says his boss

Waratahs coach Michael Foley says he is excited by the news that Wycliff Palu has signed a new deal with the club.

It was revealed on Monday that the Australia number eight has signed for another year with the Super Rugby side and his boss is delighted he has done so.

"We are so excited to have him staying on," Foley said. "The difference he's made at times in unquestionable.

"It's a great endorsement for the guys that he plays with. They are a good bunch of blokes and he wants to keep playing with them. He's a rare forward who has a little bit of X-factor.

"'Cliff can certainly do things in a game that others can't. He's able to open a game up with an involvement and he gives everyone else a lift when he's on the field."

Palu, 29, has played 81 matches for the Waratahs since making his debut in 2005 but he has been badly hit by injuries in recent times.

Just two of his 38 Test caps have come in the past two seasons - the cruellest injury being a hamstring strain early in last year's World Cup in New Zealand which ruled him out of the rest of the tournament.

Bad luck

But he is hopeful that the worst of his bad luck is now behind him. "The last couple of years haven't been easy," Palu said.

"I haven't played nearly as much rugby as I would have liked, but I've had a good run of games so far this year. Hopefully that trend continues.

"The body feels good. The hamstrings have not caused any problems. I've taken a few hits this year and not done any damage, which has definitely added a bit of confidence.

"With every game, I've felt that little bit more comfortable that I am starting to get back - match-fitness wise - to where I want to be."